Am I a Candidate for Hip Replacement Surgery?

Severe arthritis or injuries of the hip can lead to pain, stiffness and disability. Medications, physical therapy and the use of assistive devices may provide some relief, but these gradually become ineffective as arthritis progresses. Hip replacement surgery, which involves replacing the damaged or diseased parts of the joint with implants, may be recommended as a more definite option to reduce pain and improve movement. Hip replacement surgery is indicated in patients who have advanced arthritis or other severe hip conditions that have not responded to a course of nonoperative treatment. Hip replacement surgery also has certain contraindications. To find out if you are a candidate for a hip replacement procedure, please answer the following questions.